April 2025 OAS Increase: If you’re a Canadian senior or nearing retirement, chances are you’ve heard whispers or seen headlines about a supposed April 2025 OAS increase—one that could see monthly benefits reach $1,946. For many, that figure sounds like a much-needed windfall, especially in today’s economy where inflation, rising food prices, and housing costs continue to put pressure on seniors’ fixed incomes.
But how much of that talk is based on reality? Is there truly a new OAS benefit amount of nearly two thousand dollars per month? And if not, what exactly can seniors expect in April 2025 when it comes to their Old Age Security (OAS) payments?
In this article, we separate fact from fiction, breaking down the actual OAS payment amounts, clarifying eligibility requirements, exploring how OAS interacts with other retirement benefits like GIS and CPP, and helping you understand how to plan for the months ahead.
April 2025 OAS Increase
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | Old Age Security (OAS) |
| April 2025 Monthly OAS (Age 65–74) | $727.67 |
| April 2025 Monthly OAS (Age 75+) | $800.44 |
| $1,946 Claim | False – no standard monthly OAS payment matches this amount |
| One-Time Top-Up | $650 paid in March 2025 for qualifying seniors |
| April 2025 Adjustment | No CPI increase this quarter (Government of Canada) |
| Next Payment Review | July 2025 |
| OAS Eligibility Age | 65 and older |
| Official Resource | canada.ca – OAS Payments |
The rumors of a $1,946 OAS payment for April 2025 are just that—rumors. The actual maximum OAS payment remains at $727.67 for those aged 65–74 and $800.44 for those aged 75+. While some seniors may receive more in total from additional benefits like CPP and GIS, there is no single OAS payment at that level.
If you’re receiving OAS or planning for retirement, now is a good time to review your benefits, ensure your details are accurate, and prepare for future adjustments. Keep checking your My Service Canada Account, watch for updates from the Government of Canada, and don’t fall for misinformation.
The OAS is here to support Canadian seniors—and understanding how it works is your best step toward securing a stable, informed retirement.
What Is the Old Age Security (OAS) Pension?
The Old Age Security (OAS) pension is one of the cornerstones of Canada’s public retirement income system. Funded from general tax revenues, not payroll contributions, it’s available to eligible seniors aged 65 and older, regardless of employment history or past earnings.
Unlike the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), which is based on how much you earned and contributed while working, OAS is based on your residency in Canada. In most cases, you must have lived in Canada for at least 10 years after age 18 to qualify for partial payments, or 40 years for the full amount.
This monthly, taxable benefit plays a critical role in ensuring seniors have a baseline income in retirement.
April 2025 OAS Payment Breakdown
As of April 2025, the following monthly amounts apply:
- Seniors aged 65 to 74 can receive up to $727.67
- Seniors aged 75 and older can receive up to $800.44
These figures are reviewed quarterly and adjusted according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). If inflation goes up, OAS is supposed to increase accordingly. But because the CPI remained flat in early 2025, no increase was made for the April to June 2025 quarter.
So where is the confusion coming from about a payment of $1,946?
Where Did the $1,946 Figure Come From?
This number may seem official—but it’s not linked to any government document or actual OAS figure. It is most likely a combination of multiple benefits, such as:
- OAS + Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- OAS + Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
- Or a combined total for couples or households
For example:
- A senior receiving $800.44 (OAS) and $1,065.47 (GIS) could receive over $1,865/month
- If they also receive a partial CPP, total income might exceed $1,946, depending on the situation
It’s crucial to note: There is no new standalone OAS amount of $1,946/month for April 2025.
What About the $650 Top-Up in March 2025?
In an effort to help vulnerable seniors manage rising costs, the Canadian government issued a one-time $650 cost-of-living supplement in March 2025. This amount was deposited into the accounts of qualifying OAS recipients and was meant to provide temporary relief amid inflation spikes.
Eligibility for the March Top-Up Included:
- Active OAS recipients as of March 2025
- Income within a certain threshold (similar to GIS eligibility)
- Residing in Canada at the time of the disbursement
Important: This was not a recurring monthly payment and does not alter April 2025 OAS amounts. If you didn’t receive it and believe you were eligible, contact Service Canada or check your My Service Canada Account.
How Is OAS Reviewed and Adjusted?
OAS amounts are adjusted four times a year—in January, April, July, and October. Adjustments are based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks inflation in goods and services.
If the CPI increases, your OAS should go up. If the CPI is stable or drops, your payment stays the same.
The next opportunity for a possible increase will come in July 2025, depending on Q2 inflation data. Historically, these increases range between $2 to $15 quarterly, depending on inflation rates.
How OAS Works Alongside CPP and GIS
OAS is only one part of the retirement income puzzle. Most seniors receive other benefits as well.
Canada Pension Plan (CPP)
- Based on how long and how much you contributed while working
- In 2025, the maximum monthly CPP payment at age 65 is $1,364.60
- CPP can be received as early as 60 (with a reduction) or delayed to 70 (with an increase)
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- A non-taxable benefit for low-income seniors receiving OAS
- Maximum GIS for a single senior in 2025: $1,065.47/month
- Amount varies based on income, marital status, and whether your partner receives OAS or GIS
When combined, OAS + GIS + CPP could easily bring seniors close to, or above, the $1,946/month mark—especially for those with limited outside income.
Check Your OAS Status, Payments, and Eligibility
It’s easier than ever to view your personal benefits using the Government of Canada’s secure online portal:
My Service Canada Account (MSCA):
- Go to My Service Canada Account
- Log in using your GCKey, banking credentials, or provincial partner
- Review your current OAS, GIS, or CPP amounts
- Update your direct deposit or address information
Service Canada by Phone or In-Person:
- Call 1-800-277-9914 (toll-free)
- Visit a local Service Canada Centre (appointments recommended)
If you haven’t yet started receiving OAS, or your automatic enrollment hasn’t gone through, you may need to apply manually.
Applying for OAS: When and How to Do It
Who Needs to Apply?
Most people are automatically enrolled in OAS around age 64. But if you weren’t, or if you live outside Canada, you’ll need to submit an application.
When to Apply
- 6 months before your 65th birthday is ideal
- Delays could impact your first payment date
April 2025 OAS Increase Apply
- Apply online via canada.ca
- Or mail a completed paper application (form available on the same site)
- Check your MSCA for enrollment status or missing information
FAQs On April 2025 OAS Increase
Will I get $1,946 per month in April 2025 from OAS?
No. That figure is not based on any official OAS amount. It may reflect combined benefits like CPP and GIS.
Was there a bonus payment this year?
Yes. Eligible seniors received a $650 one-time payment in March 2025 to help with inflation.
When does the next increase happen?
The next CPI review is due in June 2025, with possible payment increases starting July 2025.
Can I receive CPP and OAS together?
Absolutely. Many Canadians receive both—plus GIS if their income is low enough.
Can I get OAS if I live abroad?
Yes, if you’ve lived in Canada for at least 20 years after age 18. Payments may vary depending on your country of residence.
